Suicide Prevention and Awareness Part 1

02 Sep Suicide Prevention and Awareness Part 1

This month is the time to raise awareness and advocate for those struggling with mental health. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. 

A few years ago, my friend started getting depressed. I noticed she was not engaging with her friends, family, and lost interest in her hobbies. She spent most of the time skipping class, listening to music, and staying in her room when she was home. She barely ate and her grades began slipping. She started engaging in dangerous activities, like using drugs, drinking, and putting herself in dangerous situations with boys. 

I was really worried about her. When I asked what was going on, she told me she was having some issues at home. It took a while for her to talk about it in detail, so I never pushed too hard until she was willing to talk more about it. I tried to invite her to do fun things together and would spend time at her house a lot. Even if we were just on our phones the whole time and never left her room, it was something to help her not feel alone. 

One summer day at the lake, I saw she had some scars on her wrists and stomach. I chose not to say anything at the time so she could enjoy the day full of fun. But once we were back home, I said, “I’m not going to ask if you are okay. I know you aren’t.” I offered support and reminded her I would always love her for who she was. I would never abandon or turn away from her for anything. 

After this, she started reaching out to me more. Over time, having me as part of her support system seemed to have a positive impact. I tried to connect her with others I knew who were struggling and trying to get better. Eventually, I brought up the idea of therapy or medication. It took some time. I made sure not to push her too hard until she was ready. Eventually, she finally came around to seeking help when I expressed my terrified fear of losing her one day. She was my best friend and I would not survive if I lost her. 

The important thing I made sure she understood was that she mattered. No matter what she was going through or was happening to her, it did not define her importance. She had a soul worthy of saving and she had to fight for it; not just for me, or for her family, but for herself, too. She had a life ahead of her that she had the opportunity to rewrite for herself. Her past did not have to define her. The pain was not forever. There was so much of her life left to salvage if she could just push through and fight for her mental health. She had a purpose and a chance to find it if she chose it.

It is all about getting over the hump, knowing there is so much more life to live if you just fight to get there. Once you do, it is so worth it. It is all in your control. Haruki Murakami said, “Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.” This does not mean your suffering is your fault. Not everyone has the ability to escape a painful situation without enduring some suffering. But what is your choice, is to fight for the day when you get out of it. Remember that it is not forever, and once you do come out the other side, it is up to you to make your life what you want it to be. 

It is safe to say, my friend is doing much better now. She sought help, and though it took many years of therapy, spiritual strength, and self-reflection, she is now thriving. She still has her struggles, as scars never go away, but they do heal. They remain a reminder of the fight she has within her to overcome battles and give purpose to keep fighting. She is now pursuing a life to help others who have gone through the same things she has.